If your laser eye surgery is coming up and you're thinking, “Should I be eating something specific?”, you're already one step ahead. While most people worry only about what’s happening in the operation theatre, what goes on the plate before and after surgery plays a quiet but powerful role in your recovery.
Nutrition might not seem like a big deal in the middle of all the hospital forms and pre-surgery checkups, but trust us, your eyes will thank you for paying attention to what goes in your belly.
Why Diet Matters After Laser Eye Surgery
Your eyes don’t just need rest after LASIK or PRK — they need nutrients too.
The right foods can speed up healing, reduce inflammation, and support tear production.
Wrong foods? Well, they could slow things down or make you feel unnecessarily uncomfortable.
And no one wants to squint their way through recovery with dry eyes while nibbling on spicy bhel at Chinchwad Station.
So, let’s break it down. What should be on your plate, and what’s better left out?
Foods to Eat for Better Eye Recovery
Your body is healing after a medical procedure, and that means it’s time to switch from street-style indulgence to nutrition-rich food, at least for a few days.
- Leafy Greens & Colorful Veggies:
Your mom’s daily “palak khaun ghe beta” was for a reason. Spinach, methi, kale, carrots, and bell peppers are rich in Vitamin A, C, and lutein, all great for eye health.
Tip: Add palak to your dal, or make a quick thecha-style sabzi with some colorful capsicum for taste and nutrition. - Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
Found in flax seeds, walnuts, and fish like surmai and rawas, omega-3s help reduce dry eye symptoms and support healing.
Not into seafood? A spoonful of crushed flax seeds in curd works too. - Protein-Rich Foods:
Protein helps in tissue repair. Go for paneer, eggs, dal, or even a simple chicken curry (less oil, though; this is not a buffet at a wedding). - Citrus Fruits & Berries:
Oranges, sweet limes, strawberries, and even locally available amla boost your Vitamin C, which is great for collagen production, something your eyes need to recover. - Hydrating Fluids:
Chinchwad heat, post-surgery fatigue, and dry eyes? Bad combo. Sip water throughout the day, coconut water if you want to feel fancy, or homemade buttermilk with a pinch of jeera.
Foods to Avoid (At Least for Now)
You don’t have to give up your favorites forever, but some things are better avoided while your eyes are healing.
- Oily & Fried Snacks:
We know vada pav near Chapekar Chowk has its own fan club, but the high sodium and trans fats can slow down healing and cause water retention. Maybe keep it for next weekend? - Spicy & Street Food:
Missal pav or chatpata bhel from that busy corner stall near Empire Estate might tempt you, but spicy food can trigger acidity, which is the last thing you want while recovering. Plus, the salt can dry your eyes out even more. - Alcohol:
Alcohol dehydrates your body and your eyes. If you’re serious about a smooth recovery, it’s wise to skip that evening drink, even if your friends are meeting up in Wakad. - Excess Sugar:
We know that mango mastani or jalebi from Pimpri is hard to resist, but high sugar can mess with healing and inflammation. Try fruit instead. It's not as fun, but it's much better for you right now.
Simple Meals That Work Post-Surgery
- Moong dal khichdi with ghee and a side of steamed veggies
- Vegetable upma with flaxseed powder
- Grilled fish with lemon and a green salad
- Mixed fruit bowl with a handful of nuts
- Masoor dal, roti, and lightly sautéed bhindi
These meals are comforting, easy to digest, and loaded with healing nutrients, and they won’t make you feel like you're on a punishment diet.
What You’ve Got on Your Plate (Literally)
Whether you're getting ready for your laser eye surgery or just walked out of the OT, what you eat can make your recovery journey smoother. Nutrient-rich foods like leafy greens, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and hydrating fruits help your eyes recover more quickly. On the flip side, spicy snacks, excess sugar, and alcohol might delay healing.
As your eyes adjust to a clearer world, let your diet support the process without compromising on local flavor.
And hey, once you're fully recovered, feel free to celebrate with that favorite chaat, but maybe keep a glass of nimbu paani handy this time.
Schedule a consultation with our expert, Dr. Nilesh Kakade, an eye hospital in Chinchwad at the Omkar Eye Hospital.